KAUST has signed a worldwide agreement with Thermo Fisher Scientific, granting the company access to two KAUST patents related to high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The patents enable atomic-resolution TEM imaging of electron beam–sensitive crystalline materials by minimizing beam damage using low doses of electrons. The technology also improves alignment of nano-sized crystals and delivers high signal-to-noise ratio images. Why it matters: This partnership enhances KAUST's role as a global technology university and strengthens Saudi Arabia's position as a hub for scientific advancement in materials science.
KAUST and Thermo Fisher Scientific launched an Electron Microscopy Center of Excellence on May 9. The Center expands the existing partnership between KAUST and Thermo Fisher, focusing on instrument performance and R&D collaboration. It features the FEI Titan Themis Z scanning transmission electron microscope, the first installation globally. Why it matters: The center will provide advanced materials science research capabilities to KAUST researchers, industry partners, and Saudi Arabia, enhancing scientific discovery and technological advancement in the region.
KAUST and FEI (likely referring to FEI Company, now part of Thermo Fisher Scientific) have established a new Center of Excellence. The center will be located at the KAUST Research & Technology Park on the KAUST campus. Why it matters: This partnership enhances KAUST's research capabilities and fosters innovation in science and technology within Saudi Arabia.
Ahmed Al Saleh, a 2017 KAUST material science and engineering graduate, is now a business development manager at Thermo Fisher Scientific. He is the first Saudi to work for the company, representing them in Saudi Arabia from their KAUST campus office. Al Saleh advises KAUST students to experiment and develop their social skills, embracing failure as part of the learning process. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in developing local talent for key science and technology sectors in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST Research Scientist Dr. Ram Karan received a Young Scientist Award at the 15th International Congress on Thermophiles in Japan for his work on extremozymes from Red Sea brine pools. His research focuses on identifying, purifying, and bioengineering microbial proteins from these pools. He utilizes single-amplified genomes (SAGs) to produce extremozyme proteins without needing to grow cells in the lab. Why it matters: This award recognizes KAUST's innovative research into extremophiles, which have the potential to develop novel, sustainable biotechnical processes for industrial applications.
KAUST researchers have developed a CRISPR-Cas system using a heat-stable Cas13 protein (TccCas13a) from Thermoclostridium caenicola, compatible with RT-LAMP for rapid viral detection. The new assay, named OPTIMA-dx, enhances the specificity of RT-LAMP tests by reducing false positives in SARS-CoV-2 detection. The team, led by Dr. Magdy Mahfouz and doctoral student Ahmed Mahas, is transitioning the product to a startup phase for commercialization. Why it matters: This innovation could significantly improve point-of-care diagnostics for COVID-19 and other infections by providing a more accurate and easier-to-use testing method.
KAUST and Leica Microsystems have renewed their partnership for the KAUST-Leica Center of Excellence for Optical Microscopy. The partnership has supported studies such as 3D-printed microneedles and climate adaptation in date palms, utilizing Leica's LIGHTNING technology. The Center of Excellence also hosts joint technological forums and outreach activities to develop local and regional expertise. Why it matters: The renewal strengthens KAUST's research and education in optical microscopy, fostering collaboration within Saudi Arabia and the broader region to build advanced expertise in this field.
KAUST marine biologist Maggie Johnson is studying how to accurately measure environmental conditions to optimize coral restoration, focusing on temperature and light. She highlights the variability in precision and accuracy of commercially available instruments for measuring these parameters. Johnson notes that some instruments fail in the Red Sea's warm temperatures and high salinity, providing incorrect data. Why it matters: Accurate environmental monitoring is crucial for the success of coral reef restoration efforts in the face of climate change, especially in extreme environments like the Red Sea.